Hairy Holes: Book 2

By Brenton E McKenna

Reviewed by Sophia Evans

Brenton E. McKenna is a Yawuru artist based in Broome, WA. He is the first published Indigenous graphic novel author in Australia and Hairy Holes: Book 2 is the sequel to Hairy Holes  It is a black-and-white graphic novel combining indigenous cultural references with modern story telling.

This novel follows on from the first book, so I did feel as if I started a story half-way through (as I haven’t read the first book). Book 2 contains chapters told from different character’s perspectives, where the reader pieces together the whole story from each part. Redley (one part of the Hairy Holers duo) tries to find some friends on social media; he has lots of followers but no friend requests. We meet a stereotypical representation of a ‘nerd’ keyboard warrior (introduced in Book 1 as Crypt_hunter19) who is trying to prove the existence of Hairy Holers.

The reader is then introduced to Major Bart Tux from AUS. CRACC who wants to use Ned the nerd to locate the Hairy Holers. Again, this is a very stereotypical version of a Major in a super-secret organisation and his character doesn’t seem to show any depth. Beg (the other part of the Hairy Holers duo) hacks into Red’s social media account and says a lot of mean things to Ned via his social media. Ned and Major Bart Tux return fire with their own insults, but the Major then reveals he’s actually using the conversation and photos Red’s posted to try and locate him. The Major and AUS. CRACC locate Red, and shenanigans ensue.

I’m all for a bit of suspense in a series; however I do feel that each book within a series should end, or round out part of the story, which this didn’t. It ended with three little dreaded words… “To Be Continued…”

Despite the lack of ending, Brenton’s black-and-white illustrations burst with energy, bringing each scene vividly to life. The artwork draws readers further into the character’s world. The graphic novel format feels like the perfect canvas for this story, and Brenton’s illustrations are on point in each panel.

The inclusion of bad puns and toilet humour may appeal to younger readers or reluctant readers as some of the language is a bit cringe. Older readers may find the jokes over-explained. This being said, some of the language is not totally child-friendly, but technically the story doesn’t include any swear words.

Magabala Books 2025

Brenton McKenna